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Remote keyless entry device with integrated accessible memory storage

Remote keyless entry device with integrated accessible memory storage description/claims

The present invention relates to a keyless entry device combined with an accessible memory storage device. More particularly, the present invention relates to the combination of a remote keyless entry device for a vehicle and a flash drive having memory storage accessible through an electronic interface.

Users have found remote keyless entry systems very convenient and these systems have become the choice for locking and unlocking vehicle doors. The typical keyless device, also referred to as a key fob, may be carried on a key chain with the ignition key for the vehicle as well as other keys. Thus, a user typically has the entry device along with the key when using a vehicle. Keyless entry systems may also be used in environments other than vehicles, such as to open office or home doors, and the like.

Flash memory drives have also become popular in recent years as easy, convenient ways to store and move electronic files. For example, a flash drive may include flash memory integrated with an interface to store a file for use with multiple computers using a universal serial bus (USB) or other electronic interface. A user simply plugs the drive into a port on a computer, copies the file to the flash drive and then accesses the file at another computer by interface with the flash drive.

Both the keyless entry device and the flash drive may be attached to key chains or other products that hold them for convenient use. Multiple devices on a common keychain, however, are often unwieldy and bulky. Moreover, though a remote transmitter and a flash drive may be carried on a common keychain, they are unrelated and unable to interact with each other.

The invention combines a keyless remote entry transmitter with accessible memory storage to provide a variety of unique functions. In the preferred embodiment, the keyless entry transmitter is used to operate the doors, trunk lid, etc. of a vehicle, and the functions provided by the memory storage relate directly or indirectly to the vehicle whereby the accessible memory can be used as a known flash drive but also provides one or more unique functions related to the vehicle.

While most flash drives may be carried on key chains, belt loops, briefcases and the like, they are inconvenient because they are so often lost or unavailable. Users often remove the flash drive from the keychain and then leave the drive in an interface port whereby the flash drive is unavailable when needed.

A remote entry device, however, is different. People are usually more careful with their car or home keys and lose them less often. Thus, according to a primary aspect of the invention, the accessible memory, such as a flash drive, is made to be always available in a very convenient manner because the memory feature of the flash drive is incorporated into the remote entry device. This combination then allows unique enhancement of the functions and capabilities of the remote entry device. Thus, the invention reduces the number of items carried by a keychain and provides unique functions as described below.

An electronic interface, such as a USB connector, is provided for transferring data, files and the like between the memory of the flash drive and a computer. (While the well-known USB port is the presently preferred embodiment, it should be understood that reference to a USB port herein is exemplary only and includes other interface devices now known and those developed after the filing of this application.) The incorporation of the integrated accessible memory device with a key or keyless remote entry device ensures that the memory is available as long as the user has the keys or device. Thus, a remote entry device, such as a keyless transmitter for a car, includes all the usual buttons for locking, unlocking, panic, trunk open and the like, but also includes a flash drive accessible through an interface. In a preferred embodiment, the interface extends from the device to be connected to a USB port within a computer or on the vehicle.

Another advantage of the invention is the ability to connect the memory to interface ports on a car stereo or navigational system to make the files on the memory storage available for use. Thus, because the files are combined with the vehicle's key the portable flash drive is always available when the vehicle is in use. A variety of files specific to the vehicle are preferably stored on the devices. The files include, for example, an owner's manual as well as promotional videos or interactive media, which can be deleted once accessed. Other files allowing manufacturers to target specific groups or customers based upon the vehicle may be included also.

Providing the owner's manual on the memory of the combined keyless entry system is particularly advantageous because it can be updated by connection to a designated website on the Internet.

The interface may use a cap to protect the connector from external damage. The device may be configured such that the connector is movable either linearly or rotationally between protected and use positions. The cap can be connected to a key chain and the interface removed from the key chain when used. The cap prevents dirt, dust and other particles from damaging the interface or getting inside the remote entry device.

The memory capabilities, or size, can vary in accordance with the space available, the size of memory desired, and the particular memory technology chosen. Flash memory elements and circuitry may be distributed in unused locations in known keyless entry devices and transmitters such that the size of the device or transmitter is not increased. If needed, however, the device may be made slightly larger to accommodate the elements and circuitry to provide any increased memory capacity or other capabilities.

Another advantage of the present invention over the known art is the ability of the interface or flash drive components to communicate with the remote entry device. For example, the functions of the existing components may be modified via the interface, or some of the memory capacity may be shared with the components that control the normal functions of the entry device. Another link may be made when the interface draws power from a computer or vehicle during connection to recharge the battery of the entry device. This feature provides a fully powered transmitter that reduces remote entry failures and increases customer satisfaction.

The invention, therefore, provides the user with important information, data or files that is less likely to be lost or misplaced. Further, a driver or other user of a vehicle can access and control their environment in a simple manner and without multiple gadgets and items. For example, the driver can load mp3 music files onto the flash drive from a computer and the access the files in the vehicle for playback by its interface with a port on the vehicle stereo system.

The types of files, data or information made available to the vehicle are limitless. A pass code may be provided on the memory of the flash drive that is required to start a vehicle. For example, the remote entry device includes a flash drive that communicates with the vehicle to start the ignition using the pass code. Vehicle owner contact information also may be provided on the memory that helps facilitate return of keys or keyless remote entry device if they become lost. Contact information also may be helpful to repair personnel or anyone else trying to contact the owner.

Accordingly, the disclosed embodiments are directed to a remote entry device having integrated memory storage. The device is portable so that a user may carry it to various locations, and the memory storage is accessible via a universal serial bus or other interface. Further, the remote entry device may interact with the memory to provide support, updates and the like.

According to the present disclosure, a remote entry device includes a remote entry component having a transmitter and accessible memory storage component contained in a common housing.

According to the present disclosure a combined remote entry device and accessible memory includes a housing having a removable cover. The remote entry component is enclosed by the housing and draws power from a battery. The remote entry device also includes a memory storage component having a memory accessible through a connector extending from the housing. The memory stores data regarding the remote entry device. The remote entry device also includes at least one sliding part on the outside of the housing that detaches the cover from the housing.

According to the present disclosure, another remote entry device includes a housing and a cover to attach to the housing. The cover includes an aperture and connection guides to insert into the housing. The remote entry device also includes a remote entry component within the housing. The remote entry component includes a button to indicate a signal to transmit to a receiver and a battery. The remote entry device also includes a memory storage component within the housing. The memory storage component includes a printed circuit board to support a flash drive connected to a memory that stores data regarding the remote entry device. The remote entry device also includes a connector that extends from the housing to interface with a port to allow access to the flash drive and to recharge the battery. The cover encloses the connector when attached to the housing. The remote entry device also includes a light emitting diode (LED) to indicate the connector is engaged with the port.

According to the disclosed embodiments, a keyless system is disclosed. The keyless system includes a receiver to facilitate in performing an action at a location. The keyless system also includes a remote entry device having a transmitter to transmit a signal to the receiver. The signal corresponds to the action. The keyless system also includes a memory storage component within the remote entry device that stores data and is accessible via a flash drive. The keyless system also includes a connector for the remote entry device to interface the memory storage component with another device.

• Provisional Patent
• Utility Patent

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